Namibia: -
The Crimson-breasted Shrike - Laniarius atrococcineus - or "Reichsvogel" in Namibia is a striking bird in black and red.
This shrike is extremely nimble and restless, its penetrating
whistles often being the first sign of its presence, although it is not a
shy species. The sexes have the same colouration and are
indistinguishable from each other. A yellow-breasted form is
occasionally seen, and was at first thought to be a separate species.
Young birds have a mottled and barred buff-brown appearance with a pale
bill.
It's preferred habitat is drier thornbush
areas, in thickets and riparian scrub. It makes small seasonal
migrations, preferring lower altitudes during cold periods.
These striking shrikes can be seen on the following Aves Birding Tours/Safaris/Adventures: -
Aves Arid Birding Tour/Safari/Adventure
Aves North West Birding Tour/ Safari/Adventure
Aves North East Birding Tour/Safari/Adventure
Zambia and Zimbabwe: -
The African Fish Eagle - Haliaeetus vocifer is a large bird of prey. The female, at 3.2-3.6 kg
(7-8 lbs) is larger than the male, at 2-2.5 kg (4.4-5.5 lbs). Males usually have a wingspan of about 2 m (6 feet),
while females have wingspans of 2.4 m (8 feet). The body length is
63–75 cm (25–30 in).
The adult is very distinctive in appearance with a
mostly brown body and large, powerful, black wings. The head, breast,
and tail of African Fish Eagles are snow white, with the exception of
the featherless face, which is yellow. The eyes are dark brown in
colour. The hook-shaped beak, ideal for a carnivorous lifestyle, is
yellow with a black tip. The plumage
of the juvenile is brown in colour, and the eyes are paler compared to
the adult. The feet have rough soles and are equipped with powerful
talons in order to enable the eagle to grasp slippery aquatic prey.
While this species mainly subsists on fish, it is opportunistic and may
take a wider variety of prey such as waterbirds. Its distinctive cry is,
for many, evocative of the spirit or essence of Africa.
These large striking birds can be seen on the following Aves Birding Tours/Safaris/Adventures: -
Aves Arid Birding Tour/Safari/Adventure
Aves Eastern Cape Birding Tour/Safari/Adventure
Aves Highlands/Tembe Birding Tour/Safari/Adventure
Aves KZN Birding Tour/Safari/Adventure
Aves North East Birding Tour/Safari/Adventure
Aves North West Birding Tour/Safari/Adventure
Aves Western Cape Birding Tour/Safari/Adventure
Aves West Coast Birding Tour/Safari/Adventure